One UI 8: In summary
- Samsung’s next major Android skin for its Galaxy phones and tablets
- Based on Android 16 but with plenty of tweaks
- Debuts on Galaxy Z Fold 7, 7 Flip 7 and Z Flip FE
The rollout of One UI 7 wasn’t exactly smooth for Samsung, with several delays meaning it still isn’t available on all compatible devices.
However, attention has quickly shifted to its successor in the form of One UI 8. It’s based on Android 16, yet looks set to retain a very different look and feel to Pixel phones.
The major update brings plenty of new functionality to Samsung Galaxy phones and tablets, and the first confirmed devices are already official. If you’re wondering if your device is compatible, when you’ll get it and what upgrades to expect, we’ve got you covered.
When will my Samsung Galaxy phone get One UI 8?
In summary
- Final version debuts on Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7 and Z Flip 7 FE
- Beta is available for Galaxy S25 series only
- Full rollout likely to take several months
After Google officially launched Android 16 on 10 June, we didn’t know exactly when One UI 8 (which is based on it) would arrive.
However, Samsung has since confirmed that the new Galaxy Z Fold 7, Z Flip 7 and Z Flip 7 FE will be running One UI 8 out of the box.
A beta version has been available since 28 May for Galaxy S25 series phones, but it’s not clear when it’ll be available for older devices.
Historically, Samsung has taken about two to three months after the official Android release to start rolling out its One UI updates. That would mean official rollout begins around August or September, though that’s only speculation at this stage.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
After it debuts, a full rollout to all compatible devices is likely to take a few months, though hopefully not as long as One UI 7.
Looking further ahead, a leaker suggests One UI 8.5 will make its debut on the Galaxy S26 series in early 2026. However, it’s unclear which (if any) features will be held back until then.
Sources: SmartPrix | Tarun Vats via X | Android Authority | SamMobile | Tarun Vats via X (2)
Which new features will One UI 8 have?
In summary
- Extra customisation options
- Improved animations and smoother visual effects
- New Galaxy AI features expected
Since One UI 8 is based on Android 16, many of the new features that Google has introduced have also made their way to One UI 8.
However, here are the extra features that Samsung has added.
New stock apps features
Samsung’s Gallery app now has a ‘Private’ option that’s separate from the others.
The ‘Categories’ section within My Files has been revamped, including new icons for each. The whole Reminders app has been given similar treatment, while Calendar gets dedicated tabs for ‘Event’ and ‘Reminder’.
Elsewhere, the ‘Battery Protection’ option in settings now has three modes: Basic, Maximum, or the default Adaptive.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
New Galaxy AI features
New AI features have been added in One UI 8, but they aren’t all available on all compatible devices.
For example, the ability to undock Browsing Assist from the bottom of the screen and display before and after photos side-by-side in Generative Edit are exclusive to Galaxy Z Fold models.
Audio Eraser’s integration into Gallery, Notes and Voice Recorder is more widespread, with the option to recognise and remove unwanted sounds in real time or for previous recordings.
The Now Brief feature is also slightly more capable, with support for parking spot reminders, smart home gadgets and wearable battery alerts, and the ability to speak it out loud.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Elsewhere, AI can also be used to scan the photos in the Gallery app and automatically suggest images that might be good to use as a wallpaper.
Small navigational improvements
Within the Quick Panel in One UI 8 (accessed via a swipe down from the top-right of the screen), there’s now a border around each section – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, other quick settings, volume and brightness, and other key buttons. It’s a subtle change, but one that should make it easier to navigate.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Elsewhere, Back Swipe Preview means that when you swipe right from the left edge of the screen to go back, you’ll be shown a preview of what you’ll be returning to before you commit to it.
Quick Share app changes
Samsung’s Quick Share app allows you to easily share files with other Samsung devices, Android devices and Windows PCs.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
In One UI 8, Samsung has added dedicated new ‘Receive’ and ‘Send’ tabs to make navigation easier.
New calling features
Calls are also getting an upgrade in One UI 8. During one, Call Captions displays on-screen what the other person is saying in real time.
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Also, Real Time Text (RTT) lets you type out what you want to say during a call, and have it sent directly to the other person as soon as you type it – no need to hit send. It’s designed as an accessibility feature, but could be useful in a variety of situations.
Looking to buy a new One UI handset now? See our guide to the best Samsung Galaxy phones you can buy.